Centre Foundation Unveils a Bold Strategic Plan and Modern, Refreshed Brand Identity for a Brighter Future
Centre Foundation is proud to introduce its ambitious five-year strategic plan alongside a refreshed, modern brand identity. These initiatives signal more than a visual or procedural update—they reflect a transformative shift in how the Foundation envisions its role as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation in Centre County. By aligning its mission with evolving community needs, Centre Foundation is poised to inspire new opportunities and foster impactful partnerships that will shape the region for generations.
Developed over the course of a year, through extensive listening sessions with local stakeholders—nonprofits, donors, volunteers, and community leaders—the plan reflects a shared commitment to progress. Insights from these discussions illuminated both challenges and opportunities, guiding the Foundation’s focus around four key pillars: Deliver Enduring Impact, Strengthen Nonprofits, Accelerate Growth, and Enhance Capacity. These interconnected priorities will enable the Foundation to effectively support and empower local nonprofit organizations to expand their services, improve operational effectiveness, and build the infrastructure necessary to better serve all parts of Centre County.
The Foundation’s comprehensive plan emphasizes enhanced donor engagement to achieve growth, and capacity-building and training for nonprofits. By tackling regional challenges and creating new avenues for philanthropy, Centre Foundation is committed to fostering a culture of giving, to support and empower nonprofits, and spark positive community change.
“Our new plan is the result of a collective endeavor to bring together the diverse voices and experiences that shape Centre County,” said Molly Kunkel, President and CEO of Centre Foundation. “It reflects our shared commitment to a brighter, more inclusive future where every voice matters, and every person has the tools and support they need to overcome challenges and realize their full potential.”
The Foundation’s vision of collaboration is already resonating with community leaders like Greg Scott, President and CEO of CBICC (Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County), whose organization recently launched its own five-year strategic plan. “With Centre Foundation’s new strategic plan, we have a unique opportunity to collaborate and address the challenges facing our community,” Scott said. “By embracing this plan and working together, we can unlock incredible opportunities for partnership. I am confident that this will be a plan that takes us to new heights, enabling us to grow and prosper in a way we’ve never seen here in Centre County.”
Leslie Laing, a dedicated volunteer and community organizer in State College, sees the Foundation’s efforts as a meaningful step toward advancing equity and inclusion. “Their new Equitable & Inclusive Communities Fund is designed to support equity-centered leadership and build capacity to address issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging,” Laing said. “By expanding resources geographically to our underserved communities, this new approach has the power to create lasting, positive change.”
The Foundation’s new tagline, “Inspiring a Community of Possibilities,” captures the hope and energy driving a bold vision for the future. It serves as a rallying cry and a renewed commitment to being a dynamic partner in Centre County, reflecting the endless potential of what can be achieved together.
The fluid, expansive design of Centre Foundation’s reimagined logo symbolizes growth, connection, and movement, while its dynamic, vibrant colors are tailored for a digital-first world.
“Our new look isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a reflection of who we are today and where we’re headed,” Kunkel explained. “This evolution of both brand and strategic approach ensures we stay relevant, accessible, and impactful for generations to come.”
Centre Foundation is clear that this new approach reflects a deep commitment to evolving alongside the communities it serves. By addressing Centre County’s unique and dynamic needs and fostering innovative partnerships, it aims to create meaningful and lasting change.
Centre Foundation invites the community to celebrate this exciting new chapter at its Possibilities Unveiled: Brand Refresh & New Strategic Vision Launch at Boal City Brewing on November 20, 2024, from 5:30–7:30 PM. This informal event will feature light refreshments, a short presentation, and an opportunity to engage with the Foundation’s team about the new strategic plan and refreshed brand.
For more information contact Melissa Lopata, Communications and Marketing Director, at melissa@centrefoundation.org.
